Solar Panel Company Accused of Shady Business Practices in Massachusetts

Why this matters: These issues highlight the importance of consumer protection in the rapidly growing solar industry. Homeowners should carefully review contracts and understand the terms before committing to long-term agreements.

Sunrun, which acquired Vivint Solar in 2020, is facing increasing scrutiny over its business practices in Massachusetts. The company touts itself as a leading provider of solar panels, but many customers allege they have been deceived by door-to-door salespeople and saddled with contracts they didn't fully understand. These contracts often include automatic annual cost increases and requirements to pay for all energy produced, even if it exceeds their usage.

Several Massachusetts residents have shared their experiences with GBH News, detailing how their electricity bills doubled after installing Sunrun's solar panels. Some customers have been sued by Sunrun for non-payment, while others have filed counterclaims alleging consumer fraud. Advocates are calling for stronger consumer protections to prevent predatory practices in the solar industry.

Brockton, a lower-income city with a large minority population, has been particularly affected. City officials worry about the potential for abuse in vulnerable communities, as Sunrun has filed a significant number of legal cases in the area.

How to Prepare:

Who This Affects Most:

This issue disproportionately affects lower-income homeowners and vulnerable communities who may be more susceptible to high-pressure sales tactics and complex contracts.

Leasing solar panels can lead to unexpected cost increases and long-term contracts that are difficult to break.

Contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy & Response Division and consider seeking legal advice.

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